In figure S is a monochromatic point source emitting light of wavelength `lambda=500 nm`. A thin lens of circular shape and focal length `0.10 m` is cut into two identical halves `L_(1)` and `L_(2)` by a plane passing through a doameter. The two halves are placed symmetrically about the central axis `SO` with a gap of `0.5 mm`. The distance along the axis from `A` to `L_(1)` and `L_(2)` is `0.15 m`, while that from `L_(1)` and `L_(2)` to `O` is `1.30 m`. The screen at `O` is normal to `SO`.
(a) If the `3^(rd)` intensity maximum occurs at point `P` on screen, find distance `OP`.
(b) If the gap between `L_(1)` and `L_(2)` is reduced from its original value of `0.5 mm`, will the distance `OP` increases, devreases or remain the same?

Answer

increase